Fried Calamari

An easy fried calamari recipe to make for any occasion. Breading and frying at home isn't very difficult and results in a crisp, delicious appetizer.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Calories: 523 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 6 cups all-purpose flour, divided
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon finely ground black pepper
• 1 wedge lemon
• peanut oil for frying
• 1 pound calamari tubes, thawed if frozen
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, or to taste
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Step 2

Check calamari for breaks and slice into 1/8- to 1/4-inch rings.

Step 3

Place 2 cups flour in a bowl. Whisk milk and eggs together in a separate bowl. Place remaining 4 cups flour, cornstarch, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne in a third bowl; mix thoroughly.

Step 4

Toss calamari rings in plain flour. Move to egg mixture and thoroughly coat. Move to seasoned flour and coat fully. Move back to egg mixture if not thoroughly coated; coat with seasoned flour again.

Step 5

Submerge floured calamari in hot oil until golden, 3 to 4 minutes per batch. Lift out with a slotted spoon, letting oil drip off. Drain on paper towels. Place calamari in a small bowl; check seasoning.

Step 6

Add parsley and lemon wedge for garnish.